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to wish (for); to pray (for); to hope (for)
to pray silently; to recite (Buddha's name, sutras, etc.) in one's mind; to chant (a silent prayer)
合格を心から念じた。
I sincerely prayed for passing.
家族の無事をひたすら念じている。
I'm fervently praying for my family's safety.
成功を念ずるばかりだ。
All I can do is wish for success.